Sewing machines, plain and fancy: the latest quick picks from our tests.(Up front: news / trends / advice)

You don't have to spend thousands to get a handy, versatile, and durable sewing machine. You can see that clearly in the Quick Ratings below The chart highlights the best of the best--newly tested machines that proved very good or excellent and some standout machines from an earlier test. All are judged Quick Picks.

* Mechanical machines. The Kenmore, a CR Best Buy at $180, sewed very capably on a variety of fabrics in single and multiple layers, and it was good on denim. It's also relatively lightweight, and it includes an automatic buttonholer, needle threader and five presser feet. The Brother, $325, was slightly better on corduroy and zippers. It also has a longer warranty than the Kenmore (1 year vs. 90 days).

* Electronic machines. These typically have pushbutton controls, an LED screen, the ability to make many decorative stitches, and other features. The most affordable ones are the Brother, a CR Best Buy at $500, and the Singer, also $500. The Brother is quite impressive. It includes a superb automatic needle threader and 49 selectable stitches. The Singer doesn't sew as expertly but lets you program in letters. If price is no object, consider the Husqvarna or Bernina. These excellent electronic machines sell for $2,800 and $1,400, respectively.

Free at ConsumerReports.org

Full sewing machine Ratings, free from Dec. 7 to Feb. 8. In the appliances section of our Web site.

 
Quick Ratings Sewing machines 
 
Quick Picks from our tests. Within types, in performance order. 
 
                                                               Test 
      Brand & model                       Price               results 
 
      Similar models, in small type, 
      comparable to tested model.                  Sewing   Ease of use 
 
      MECHANICAL Best for basic sewing, hems, repairs. 
 
      Brother Pacesetter PS-1250 [D]      $325      ...